High Point Panthers vs UIC: Boardwalk Battle Preview

High Point Panthers Seek Dominance in Boardwalk Battle

The High Point Panthers (4-1) continue their quest for early-season dominance when they face the UIC Flames (3-1) in the Boardwalk Battle tournament on Thursday, November 20, 2025. Tip-off at Daytona Beach's Ocean Center is set for 2:30 PM ET, with the game streaming live via BallerTV.

High Point's Explosive Offense

Coming off the program's first NCAA Tournament appearance, the Panthers are riding high with a blend of seasoned transfers and returning stars. Key transfer Cam'Ron Fletcher (Kentucky, Florida State, Xavier) leads the charge with 18.0 points per game and was named Big South Player of the Week. The 6'7" forward is complemented by sharpshooter Chase Johnston, who drained five threes against Canisius, and efficient scorer Rob Martin.

High Point's offense is averaging 93 points per game, highlighted by a historic 93-50 victory over Canisius—the largest margin of victory over a D1 opponent in program history. Their high-pressure offense, rooted in Creighton assistant Alan Huss's system, presents challenges for opponents.

UIC's Strengths and Struggles

The Flames have started strong with wins over non-conference foes but fell narrowly to Oregon State (76-73). Led by Ahmad Henderson II (16.8 ppg) and Andy Johnson (15.0 ppg), UIC excels defensively and at the free-throw line. However, critical weaknesses include poor rebounding and excessive turnovers (14+ per game).

"UIC's biggest strengths reside in their defense and free-throw shooting," notes Action Network analyst Jonathan Jorcin. "But their turnover issues and lack of size will be exploited by High Point's tempo."

Matchup Analysis

Both teams boast 8-9 returning players, but High Point's depth and cohesion give them an edge. The Panthers' style will force UIC into fast-break scenarios, likely overwhelming the smaller Flames squad. Betting models project High Point as an 80% favorite, with an 83-73 predicted outcome.

"High Point's high-pressure offense will exploit UIC's turnover issues and lack of size, leading to numerous fast-break opportunities." — Jonathan Jorcin, Action Network

Historic Context and Tournament Significance

This marks the first meeting between the programs. For High Point, the Boardwalk Battle serves as a tune-up before Big South play, where they're preseason #1 for the second consecutive season. Coach Flynn Clayman, formerly an associate head coach under Huss, continues his predecessor's offensive philosophy.

"The energy for this season stems from Coach Clayman," the High Point athletics site notes. "After the most successful season in program history, the Panthers aim to build on their NCAA Tournament momentum."

How to Watch

Fans can catch the action on BallerTV starting at 2:30 PM ET. High Point is favored by 8.5 points (-8.5), with the moneyline at -430 and an over/under of 157.5 points.